TORONTO - Philippine Airlines has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to acquire up to 12 Bombardier Q400 turboprop airliners. The airline thus becomes the launch customer for the extra-capacity, two-class, 86-passenger version of the aircraft. The 86-seat layout will include 10 premium-service seats.

"For close to a decade, the Bombardier Q Series family of aircraft has been instrumental in evolving our domestic network operations," said Jaime Bautista, President and Chief Operating Officer of Philippine Airlines. "We are proud that our continued fleet growth now makes us the first airline to launch service with the two-class, 86-seat Q400 aircraft. As we strive to become a five-star-rated airline, the Q400 aircraft, featuring a modern and innovative configuration, will be instrumental in providing our travelers with a world-class, in-flight passenger experience."

"Integrating the extra-capacity, two-class Q400 aircraft into its operations is the ideal solution for Philippine Airlines as it reshapes its domestic air travel strategy," said Fred Cromer, President of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. "With its perfect balance of passenger amenities and operational flexibility, the 86-seat Q400 aircraft will offer Philippine Airlines significant opportunities to differentiate itself in the region's fiercely competitive environment."

Cromer added, "We look forward to working with Philippine Airlines to reach a firm purchase agreement for Q400 aircraft."

"As Philippine Airlines looks to develop its domestic operations from secondary hubs and increase intra-island connectivity, the 86-seat Q400 aircraft -- the largest two-class turboprop aircraft available on the market -- will increase the carrier's competitiveness by offering the lowest seat-mile and operating costs in the regional aircraft market," said Francois Cognard, Bombardier Vice President of Sales for South-East Asia and Australasia. "Our continued collaboration will undoubtedly set the stage for another decade of profitable and efficient operations for Philippine Airlines."

Philippine Airlines serves 31 destinations in the Philippines and more than 40 destinations in Asia, the Middle East, Oceania, North America, and Europe.

Source: Bombardier